9 Numbers That'll Tell You How the Economy's Really Doing
We've whittled the vast universe of economic data down to these nine key numbers that will give you a quick handle on the health of the economy.
Personal income
U.S. Consumers' Spending Up in February, Data Show
U.S. consumer spending rose in February and income rebounded, further signs economic activity accelerated in the first quarter.
Six Upbeat Money Trends of 2012
Between the elections, the fiscal cliff, and the endless battles over taxes, expenditures, and budget issues both big and small, 2012 has been a difficult year. But, amid all the sound and fury, there have also been promising developments on the financial front. Here's a look at a few of our favorite money stories of this year.
Consumer Spending, Personal Income Up in November
Consumers spent and earned more in November, reflecting a rebound from the disruptions caused by Superstorm Sandy. The Commerce Department says consumer spending rose 0.4 percent compared with October. Personal income jumped 0.6 percent, the biggest gain in 11 months.
U.S. Consumer Spending Rose 0.8 Percent in September
Americans increased their spending in September at twice the rate that their income grew, a sign of confidence in the economy. Still, consumers made up the difference by saving less for a third straight month, a troubling trend.
Why a Little Inflation Is a Good Thing for Americans
Inflation has inched higher in the past six months, but that's not a danger sign, but rather a harbinger of improving economic conditions and a strengthening recovery. And that, in turn, should lead to higher wages and more hiring in the year ahead.
What Obama Really Needs: Robust Income Growth
As much as the market and Corporate America may like what they heard in the president's speech Tuesday night, history shows Obama's reelection in 2012 remains pinned to boosting Americans' income growth to at least 3%. Problem is, right now it's running at just 1.4%.
A Dose of Bah, Humbug for Holiday Sales Growth
Rising retail sales are adding to the list of positive economic developments as 2010 winds down. But how important are holiday sales in the larger scheme of things? Investors may be giving too much credit to what turns out to be a tiny sliver of U.S. GDP.
Weak Income and Spending Data May Push Fed to Move
It's clear the U.S. economy is suffering from a lack of demand. So, this poor report will likely bolster Fed officials who want to keep interest rates low and employ more quantitative easing.
Poorer Households Give Consumer Sentiment a Boost
September's consumer sentiment level unexpectedly rose to 68.2 from its preliminary 66.6 reading. However, the entire gain came from more positive responses among households earning under $75,000 -- those who wouldn't be affected by a failure to extend the Bush income tax cuts for the rich.
U.S. Factory Orders Dropped Again in June
Orders fell 1.2% in June, well below a survey estimate of a 0.5% drop, marking two down months in a row. Even excluding the often-volatile transportation component (airplanes and cars), orders fell 1.1% in June.
Consumer Spending and Personal Incomes Both Flat in June
Consumer spending and personal incomes were both unchanged in June after rising 0.1% and 0.3%, respectively, in May, the Commerce Department said today. Economists surveyed by Bloomberg forecast a median 0.1% gain in spending and a 0.2% advance in incomes.
U.S. Savings Rate Hits 4% in May as Incomes Rise
The U.S. savings rate rose to an eight-month high in May, as a 0.4% rise in average income outpaced a 0.2% rise in spending. But cautious consumers spending, while good in the long term, may slow the country's economic recovery.